Pace Leader

As a benefit to the Marathon runners, the Pace Team will be there for you. We will be offering pace groups led by experienced pacers for a wide variety of times including many of the Boston qualifying standards. We hope you will find this support useful as you strive to achieve your marathon goals. Click Here for Pace Leader Bios.

A pace team is a group of runners led by an experienced leader who run together in the marathon. The pace leader runs a steady pace and keeps track of that pace so that the group can achieve their goal of finishing the marathon at a particular time. There are wonderful benefits of running with a pace group. You’ll be supported by a cheerful leader and will be side by side with other runners sharing the same goal as you. Click here for Pace Leader Bios.

One of the biggest mistakes that marathoners make is starting out too fast and then hitting the wall in the later portions of the race. The pace team will run at an even pace per mile. If the pace feels too slow in the beginning of the race that’s normal. Just stay with the group and ask the pace leader about an appropriate strategy for the second half. If you find the pace too fast in the early miles, then slow down and drop back from the team so you’ll be able to finish the race.

The Pace Team promises to provide fun and excitement for both first time, and experienced marathoners looking to reach their running goals - whether that's a personal best, or just getting across the finish line. Below are the answers to a few common questions about the Pace Team.

Frequently Asked Questions About The Pace Team

Where do the Pacers come from?

All of our Pacers were chosen because of their years of running many marathons around the country but most importantly their extensive marathon pacing experience. Our Pacers are dynamic and personable, and know from past experience exactly what it takes to help you have a great marathon experience. Click here for Pace Leader Bios.

What Pace Groups are offered?

See the entire Pace Team lineup and goal times at MarathonPacing.com. Additional groups may be added so check with us at the Expo.

What pace group should I be in?

The best way to select the proper pace group is to consult the Race Prediction charts at MarathonGuide.com. There you can base your desired finish time on a previous shorter race you’ve completed this season. It’s very important not to start out to fast in the marathon and to select the proper pace based on your actual previous performance.

What does it cost to run with the Pace Team?

The Pace Team is free to registered runners and doesn't cost you anything!

How will the Pacers be running the race?

Every pace leader will be holding a steady pace throughout the marathon. These "even splits” are the best way to achieve your peak performance in the race.

Will the Pacers start out on pace exactly? How do they do that!?

The guys and gals serving as Pace Leaders are very experienced and know their pace well. Sometimes at the start it’s crowded and may take a couple of miles to settle into a steady pace. Most importantly, they won’t take you out too fast and burn up all your energy early on.

Where will my Pace Leader be on race morning?

About 30 minutes before the start we’ll be assembling in the starting area. About 15 minutes before the start the Pacer will give you some last minute instructions about running with the group. They will talk about the course, what to do if you need a break, and how to make it through the water stops. Now is the time to ask any last minute questions you may have.

Where will my Pace Leader be wearing?

We will be wearing our bright red SARA'S PACERS shirts and our spiffy skirts provided by RunningSkirts.com. Each Pacer will be holding up their pace sign so when you see it go and join up with the group.

What will the Pace Leader do at the water stations?

The Pacer will usually slow down or walk through the water stops. Listen for this information during the last minute instructions.

Will there be Pace Leaders for me if I’ve trained using the Galloway method?

You can use the Pace Leader as a guide even if you’re using the run-walk method. You will be meeting up with the Pace Leader regularly throughout the marathon, running ahead and then walking behind.